Economic Development

The mission of the Amherst Department of Economic Development is to promote balanced, long-term economic activity that reflects and enhances the character of the Amherst community. It establishes economic development programs and practices that lead to tax base growth, job creation and preservation, and blight prevention. The Department connects the dots from need to opportunity and serves as the Town’s liaison for the promotion of development and redevelopment of properties. The Department works to improve the business climate in a manner consistent with Amherst’s community values, prepares marketing material to promote interest in Amherst’s businesses, cultural facilities, and recreational attractions, as well as fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Amherst has begun the process of creating an economic development strategy. With a generous grant from the state's Community Compact Cabinet Best Practices Program, the town engaged the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission as consultants to report on key economic indicators, an analysis of the retail market, and strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis. The data in these reports will form the foundation of specific strategies to strengthen and diversify the Amherst economy.

About Amherst

The Town of Amherst, located in the lovely Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, is a diverse, inclusive community offering numerous educational and cultural opportunities.

Host to Amherst College, Hampshire College, and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, the Town enjoys a tradition of open, professional, and high level of government services, quality education, support for open space and agriculture, and respect for its history.